Cemetery board reports stolen mausoleum doors and discusses stepped-up security and documentation

Board members of the Benton Harbor Cemetery Board heard reports that two mausoleum doors were removed from Crystal Hill Cemetery and that investigators have video and at least one suspect. The board and volunteers said they will expand photographic documentation and pursue coordination with law enforcement to prevent further thefts.

A representative of Friends of Crystal Springs and Morton Hill Cemeteries told the board the group had taken photographs of all mausoleums and planned more detailed photos of doors and brass work so materials can be identified if they surface later. “There was two doors … that the doors were completely removed,” the group reported, and volunteers recovered two pieces of brass they believe were left behind.

Board members said the person who removed the doors damaged hinges and appears to have cut some material for scrap. Police are investigating and have video and photos, board members said. Volunteers described donating a replacement flag for the Veterans Cross after a Memorial Day ceremony that drew more people than the prior year.

The board and volunteers discussed short-term and longer-term security options: closing a side gate on Crystal Avenue to limit access, asking township police to add targeted patrols, and installing camera systems as a deterrent. Members noted many grants prohibit purchasing cameras, which limits immediate funding options; staff said they would pursue discussions with township police and the city’s public safety department.

Volunteers also outlined operational steps the group will take to reduce theft risk: detailed photographic records of ornamentation and plaques, a standardized form to document missing or damaged private and city-owned items, and continued brush-clearing and trail work to improve site visibility.

The board did not adopt a formal new security policy at the meeting but directed follow-up conversations with police and staff; volunteers and board members said they would share photographic documentation with investigators and maintain a public record for identification.